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Marvin Gaye Park & the Down By the Riverside Campaign
A Partnership of the DC government, non-profit organizations, and the Watts Branch Stream Valley.
2001-2011 Accomplishments:
- Leveraged $30 million in new public and private funding
- Mobilized over 500 job trainees and 60,000 volunteers
- Created new jobs in the park, with many more coming in the revitalization
- Removed 3000 tires, 14,000 hypodermic needles, & 55,000 bags of garbage
- Towed 95 abandoned cars and trucks
- Hauled out over 6,000,000 pounds of bulk trash and debris
- Cleaned up dozens of old dump and clean-up piles
- Cleared and reopened 2 miles of trail, stream, and stream bank
- Removed thousands of exotic invasive plants choking the ecosystem
- Planted 2000 native trees and shrubs
- Dramatically reduced crime and improved park safety
- Created Marvin Gaye Amphitheater on what was previously the most violent site in the park
- Produced Unity Arts Series (art, dance, drumming, talent)
- Launched Watts Branch Community Alliance and advisory council
- Opened community park headquarters at the old Barnett's Café and Crystal Lounge, now renamed Riverside Center
- Addressed over 100 public meetings and 250 classes about Watts Branch
- Held rallies and galvanized thousands of supporters for Ten-Point Call to Action
- Briefed city and federal officials at 18 agencies, City Council, & Mayor's Cabinet on needed actions
- Held community press conferences together with city agencies and partners
- Stopped sewage leaks at numerous sites along stream
- Documented Watts Branch improvements with thousands of photographs and dozens of taped and videotaped interviews; mounted public photograph installation celebrating the park and its renewal
- Launched new youth park mapping project with National Geographic
- Sponsored youth programs such as classes, parades, Bike Rodeos, Health Fairs, Fun Runs, Field Days, Nature Walks, Talent Shows, Concerts, and more.
- Started outdoor film and music programs at Heritage Green
- Started Farm Market with fresh locally grown produce
- Won designation as one of ten 21st Century American Heritage Parks
- Won Helping Hands Award from the National Congress for Community Economic Development
- Apprehended illegal dumpers and blocked further dumping at most sections of park by installing hundreds of bollards along the edge of the park
- Launched Heart & Soul health and fitness park program
The park and campaign has garnered extensive media coverage:
Read about the campaign's history as well as articles detailing its revitalization. You may also view the Marvin Gaye Park Photo Gallery or a watercolor map of the entire stream-valley. Or find out more about the Riverside Center. To join the campaign, contact us online |